28
Texas VFW News — 1st Place Winner 2015 National Publications Contest Texas VFW District 18, Post 7473, Elsa, Texas—Post Commander Lupita Perez assists at local food bank. inside Women in Service Veterans in the Community Operation Iraqi Freedom FALL 2015

2015 Texas VFW Fall News

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

The official magazine of the Texas VFW.

Citation preview

Page 1: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

Texas VFW News — 1st Place Winner2015 National Publications Contest

Texas VFW District 18, Post 7473, Elsa, Texas—Post Commander Lupita

Perez assists at local food bank.

insideWomen in ServiceVeterans in the CommunityOperation Iraqi Freedom

FALL 2015

Page 2: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News
Page 3: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

CONTENTS

Serving Veterans Since 1899What Does The Texas VFW Offer You?Camaraderie with fellow Veterans • Community Networking & Involve-ment • Remembrance Programs • Full time support of today’s service members • Programs for families and youth • Full Time Watchdog on Capitol Hill & at the Texas Legislature • Free representation in VA claims • An award-winning magazine

Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to [email protected]

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are not to be construed as those of the publisher nor as official views of the Texas VFW, the National VFW or any of its agencies, unless otherwise made manifest by writers or spokespersons acting on behalf of the foregoing.

Advertising of products and services herein does not imply endorsement or approval of the Texas VFW.

Advertising is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services are accurately described. Ads that contain fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements or illustra-tions, or in the opinion of the Texas VFW News may be offensive, are not knowingly accepted. If you encounter noncompliance, please tell us.

For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

Post members remember Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Veterans, friends and family remember POW/MIA by holding state-wide events.

In the News 4 Commander’s Column

5-6 Veterans in the Community

7 To Our Members 8 Korean Armistice

10 Texas VFW Foundation

11 Operation Iraqi Freedom

12 Victory Over Japan

14 Legislative News

16 Patriot Day

18-19 VFW Store

20-22 POW/MIA

24 VFW 116th Birthday

24 Start of Enduring Freedom

25 Texas VFW Membership Application

26 Women in Service

28 Post 3406 Celebrates Patriot Day

Upcoming Events 23 Mid-Winter Conference

Operation Iraqi Freedompage 11

Remembering POW/MIApage 20-22

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

www.texasvfw.org

Texas VFW News — 1st Place Winner2015 National Publications Contest

Texas VFW District 18, Post 7473, Elsa, Texas—Post Commander Lupita Perez assists at local food bank.

insideWomen in ServiceVeterans in the CommunityOperation Iraqi Freedom

FaLL 2015ABOUT THE COVERTexas VFW District 18

Post 7473 of Elsa, Texas Post Commander Lupita Perez restocks the table

with goods during a volunteer opportunity at

a local food bank to help people in need.

Join us on facebook for up-to-date information, photos of VFW events and breaking news relevant to Veterans.

Flippable Online Version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org.

3Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 4: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $20.00.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753

Volume LXVV, Number 2, © October 2015. All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.

Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine.

Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at [email protected].

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EditorDan West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant EditorErin Marlow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editormedianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Graphic DesignDEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2015-2016 DEPARTMENT OFFICERSCOMMANDER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3413 Dan West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N I35. Austin, TX 78753SR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9182 Peyton Lumpkin . . . . . . . . . 2207 Blue Water Bay, Katy, TX 77494JR VICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4815 Eddie Torres . . . . . . .663 Moursund Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78221JUDGE ADVOCATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9182 Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . 1927 Mariner Point Ln., Katy, TX 77494SURGEON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3359 Doc Howard . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044CHAPLAIN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4816 Norman Macey. . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct, Humble, TX 77346CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5076 John Lozanski . . . . . . . . 1215 Cedar Ridge Rd, Heath, TX 75032INSPECTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3413 Lonnie Garza. . . . .1769 Jacobs Court, New Braunfels, TX 78130IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR. . . . . . . . . 7426 Joe Hayes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 CR 1118, Caddo Mills, TX 75135COUNCIL MEMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8932 Larry Velasquez . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413ADJ/QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3377 Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753ASST ADJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3413 Dan West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753ASST QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6378 Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78753DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . 3413 Dave Adams . . . . . . . . . 309 Whitetail Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . 4008 Roger DeWeese . . . . . . . . . . . . 404 Lake Road, Belton, TX 76513DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . 12041 Larry Sanders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 457, Lytle, TX 78052DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . 3278 Keith King . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Belmeade, Brownwood, TX 76801DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . 2775 Robert LaFleur . . . . . . . . . .3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . 5076 James Pratt . . . . . . . . . 2018 Royal Crest Dr., Garland, TX 75043OFFICER OF THE DAY . . . . . . . . . . . 2427 Stephen Biehl . . . . . 28314 Hardin Store Rd, Magnolia, TX 77354

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORSSERVICE OFFICER/WACO. . . . . . .6008 Lloyd Coffman . . . . . . . . . 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799SERVICE OFFICER/HOUSTON. . . . 15045 Richard Pallanez . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030

2015-2016 DISTRICT COMMANDERSDISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9168 Guy Northrup . . . . . . . . . . . . 1402 Summer Time Trl, Lewisville, TX 750672 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2775 James Seales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 Gary, Bridge City, TX 761113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6796 Jerry Greene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10523 Ferguson Rd, Dallas, TX 752284 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5619 Rudy Carr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5623 Hazen St, Houston, TX 770815 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2933 Keith Foley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 787616 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2375 Jose Flores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .336 E. CR 2208, Kingsville, TX 783638 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3278 James Masters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7800 FM 2125, Brownwood, TX 768019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1475 Hank Dompe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 606 S Hoyne, Fritch, TX 7903610 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 812 Rod Raulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 7990412 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8560 David Nichols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 7542513 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1480 Tim Casey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1328 Ranchero Rd, Kerrville, TX 7802814 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10376 Bob Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1501 Nortwood Dr, Marble Falls, TX 7865415 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8878 Mike Hood . . . . . . . . . . . 1208 N. Rosewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 7630116 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3903 Brian Satsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9830 Hein Rd, Richmond, TX 7746917 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4709 Gary Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 Virginia Lane, Conroe, TX 7730418 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2410 Loren Pogue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 809, Donna, TX 7853719 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3893 Dick Shawver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Dr, Flint, TX 7576220 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8111 Robert Martinez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314 Shadewell, San Antonio, TX 7822821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10429 Lynn Toomer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 937 Behrens Court, Crowley, TX 7603624 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4403 Jack Mageluzzo. . . . . . . . . . 1003 N Benavides St, Port Lavaca, TX 7497925 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6284 Melvin Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 7976228 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10427 Danny Soles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13204 N Ridge Cir, Leander, TX 7864129 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6008 Roy “Bobby” Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 7670530 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4376 Randall Johnston. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192 Oak Hills Dr, Mabank, TX 75156

AS THE STATE COMMANDER FOR THE TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS I receive numerous letters and a phone call or two on a weekly basis from a person named “anonymous.”

I would like to talk to you today about when it is your duty to stand. Like all of you I was raised in the United States of America, a country founded on the actions of brave and courageous men and women who considered it their solemn duty to stand and confront injustice.

Over the last two plus centuries of this great nation, generations of courageous men and women have considered it their solemn duty to stand and confront injustice.

These men and women did not hide in the shadows of anonymity when it was time to confront the injustice of inequality, racism and discrimination. They stood and confronted it face to face with bold and daring courage.

In that same time the extremes and injustices of governments based on Communism, Despotism, Dictatorship, Imperialism, Totalitarianism, Monarchy, Theocracy and Oligarchy have required that brave and courageous men and women of honor and integrity stand and confront them in faraway places across the globe, many times at the cost of their own lives.

Failure to stand when duty requires says a lot about a person’s character and integrity. Asking others to stand for you when you will not even stand for yourself says even more about their honor. An old saying that comes to mind is “For evil to succeed, good people need only to do nothing.”

I know that members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars are American veterans who have served in a war zone and have the intestinal fortitude to face the enemies of our nation with the knowledge that they might lose their life in the performance of their duties. They are men and women of the highest degree of courage and honor.

As such members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars stand up at their Post meetings and question issues and require answers on those items that do not meet the high standards of our order. They would not write the State Commander with a complaint of wrongdoing without any evidence and then not sign their name.

Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars are many things, but they do not cower behind anonymous accusations without having that same intestinal fortitude they faced the enemies of our nation with. They have a backbone and are not timid and weak when it comes to voicing their opinions, they are not fearful or faint hearted.

Regardless of their age or infirmities, they are lions on the battlefield and the mind of a lion never changes. They are the heroes of this nation and I am proud to be counted among their numbers.

AS A MEMBER OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES IT IS YOUR DUTY TO STAND AT YOUR POST AND CONFRONT THE ISSUES HEAD ON AS YOU FULLY EXPECT ME TO STAND AT MY POST AND DO THE SAME.

If you believe that you need assistance from the State then know that we will gladly assist you as long as we know who you are and that you are a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

For the good of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars and the brave and honorable men and women who are the members I serve, I thank you for your service to our country and your dedication to the Veterans of Foreign Wars. n

4 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 5: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

C o m m u n i t y S e r v i c e

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 3, POST 7843, DUNCANVILLE, TEXAS—Members donate $3,500 of funds to purchase an exercise machine for the Cardiac Rehab Unit at Dallas VA Medical Center. The post members also donated $500 for transportation for indigent veterans to get back home when discharged from the hospital, transit passes, cab fares, and additional services. Other posts in District 3 also pledged to match that transportation donation.

VA North Texas Health Care System is a progressive health care provider in the heart of Texas. It is the VA’s second largest health care system, that serves over 113,000 Veterans and delivers 1.4 million outpatient episodes of care each year to Veterans in 38 Texas counties and two counties in southern Oklahoma.

COMMUNITYVETERANS

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 5, POST 8927, LOCKHART, TEXAS—Post members donate multiple packages of socks for men, women, and children to the Caldwell county homeless and Coats for Kids program.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 24, POST 9189, RUNGE, TEXAS— Members donate a pallet of water to students and facility at Runge High School. Members Tim Shriver and Quartermaster Henry Jansen.

5Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 6: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

C o m m u n i t y S e r v i c e

COMMUNITYVETERANSHumble, Texas—Post 12075’s Tombstone Squad, Attacks GrimeBy Jim Haycraft

Post Junior Vice, Mike Riley, rounded up the usual pack of suspects along with a couple of his First Marine Division Association buddies and developed a plan of attack.

Cecil McConnell, Post Senior Vice and District Junior Vice, Bob Phillips, Hutch Hutchinson, John Heimburger and Jim Haycraft along with the two FMDA members, Fred Balmes and Larry Wells assembled at the Humble Cemetery glanced at the cloudless sky, wiped the anticipated sweat from their collective brows and received their instructions be launching their attack on decades (in a couple of cases, centuries) of grime that layered the headstones of twelve veterans resting in the small cemetery. A couple of stores identified Confederate soldiers, while others identified troops and sailors from World Wars I and II, Korea and Vietnam.

The squad broke up into small groups and attacked the headstones with eco-friendly solutions, scarpers, scrubbers and elbow grease under the watcheye of Channel 13th video camera and the flashing camera of the Humble Observer’s editor.

Upon successful completion of the attack, with twelve head stones gleaming clean in the noon sunlight, the survivors gathered for a well-deserved lunch at the Humble Inn.

Post 12075 and District 4 Senior Vice Cecil McConnell scrubs a veteran’s tombstone.

John Heimburger, Bob Phillips, Hutch Hutchinson, Mike Riley and Larry Wells layout their equipment in preparation to cleaning veterans’ tombstones.

Texas VFW District 24 Post 6382 of Hallettsville, Texas—Commander Chuck Grafe

presents a $500 check toward improving and maintaining highway signs to the President of Vietnam Veterans of

America, Ron Ridgeway.

6 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 7: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

T o O u r M e m b e r s

VFW MEMBERSHIPPeyton Lumpkin, State Senior Vice CommanderComrades, Thank you for your faith and confidence by selecting me as your Senior Vice Commander for the State of Texas. I look forward to visiting your Posts and Districts in the near future.

Today I want to talk to you about the lifeblood of the VFW—Mem-bership. Without an emphasis on voluntary membership, most non-profit or charitable organizations would not exist. It is always the basis and most important part of any organization. The Veterans of Foreign Wars has always done a good job of bringing in members because there is a bond between comrades in arms (those who have borne the battle) like no other. We are the one percent with shared experiences that oth-ers have a hard time understanding.

When bringing in a new member, it is a give-and-take process. How we may be able to help him or her is the most important part of this give-and-take. One way to help is to assist them with their VA benefits by referring them to a Service Officer for their claims or even taking them to see a Service Officer or to the VA. Remember, the first trip to the VA is intimidating and your assistance can sell them on the VFW forever. Sometimes they do not even know they have a claim or are eligible for VA benefits. Give them a dollar-tour of the VA and help them along the way.

Another way to assist a new member is with their educational benefits. The government-provided educational benefits for our veterans are better than they have ever been; however, like any government pro-gram, they are complicated. Have your Post Service Officer familiarize himself with these programs so he can provide assistance when needed.

Another area that is extremely important is employment assistance. Young veterans need a way to support their family. After a veteran joins the VFW, he or she finds they now have a group they can network with. I know from experience that my Post has found jobs for six young veterans soon after they joined. Town halls and job fairs are always being held at VFW Posts across the state, and this part of our mission is very attractive to the younger veterans.

New members help the VFW in various ways. They assist us in com-munity service efforts; they add to our numbers statewide and nation-ally, which is important in the legislation process; they help bring in new members; and most importantly they assist us in our mission of helping our veterans.

The latest government demographic information states that there are 1.6 million veterans in the State of Texas. We have approximately 75,000 in the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars, which makes up about 4.6% of the total veterans in our great State. In conclusion, there are many veterans out there who should be members of our great organization.

This is our chance to excel.

VFW PROGRAMSEdward C. Torres, State Junior Vice CommanderComrades,As we start another VFW year, I want to express to you in advance, a heart-felt thank you for all of the volunteer hours you will serve while completing another VFW year. All of our past successful years have given us much to appreciate as we continue our journey serving veterans. Our Posts have a unique opportunity to honor our members and all vet-erans by completing Veteran Program Recognition ceremonies through-out the year. Be aware of all VFW programs and the deadline dates to submit your Post’s entries. Some of our programs, such as the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen are in progress now. Programs throughout the year are Public Servant Awards, ROTC recognition, Civil Air Patrol awards and the Citizenship Education Awards for our school teachers. Information on all of these programs is available either at the National website, www.vfw.org or the Texas VFW website www.texasvfw.org.

It is a challenge to accomplish all of these programs during the year and doing so is only half of the battle. The other half is training. All of us must train our members so that they have the knowledge and know-how to use that knowledge to meet and exceed the organizations standards. Post officers and members need to know how to manage a VFW Post and generate income. Posts with property need to understand the mechanics of promoting ad selling rental contracts and obtaining the proper amount of insurance. You must hold monthly meetings and plan for future growth. You must accomplish all of this while enforcing strict observance of all federal, state and local law as well as the National and State By-Laws. The success of a Post can be directly attributed to our past and current officers who have trained their successors in the proper rules to successfully operate a VFW Post. The vision of these officers is always focused on the mission of the VFW and securing our properties that directly serve our veterans and communities.

I am humbled and truly appreciative of the support I received in being elected as your State Junior Vice Commander. It is my objective to repre-sent this organization and fulfill our high standards and the legacy of the VFW. As the State Junior Vice Commander, one of my primary duties is promoting the VFW National Home. If you have not done so, I would encourage each of you to become life members of the VFW National Home. A small membership fee of $35.00 helps continue this legacy of the VFW. Please visit their website www.vfwnationalhome.org.

In closing, I want to offer some of my perspective in life. Live with gratitude for the blessings you are given every day. Pray for our Prisoners of War and Missing in Action and their families who are still waiting on closure for their loved one that never came home. Do your best to the best of your ability because if you do, you never have to make an excuse for failure. May God bless you and your family. May he safeguard each of us and our troops. May he shelter the homeless and protect the elderly. Let us have a successful VFW year as we help those that deserve so much.

7Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 8: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

K o r e a n A r m i s t i c e

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 21, POST 4695, HURST, TEXAS—Post members held a Korean Armistice ceremony at their Hawaiian-themed party where veterans were recognized and a moment of silence took place.

KOREAN Armistice

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 30, POST 6635, GRAND SALINE, TEXAS—Post members held a Korean Armistice ceremony that commemorated Korean Conflict Veterans.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 6, POST 8786, FREER, TEXAS—Post members honor the Korean veterans by visiting the sick veterans.

8 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 10: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

10

Your small donation makes a BIG difference.The Texas VFW Foundation accepts memorials in honor of your loved ones. Those funds are reserved for the family of the deceased. If the family declines assistance, the funds are utilized in the Veterans Assistance Program.

Helping Veterans in Need

• The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Public Charity, Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge, widow or immediate family member thereof, regardless of where or what time they served.

• Funds for this program come from individual donations from veterans and veteran supporters like yourself, and from charitable foundations. • The Veterans Assistance Program is not an entitlement program and not all veterans who apply will receive a financial grant and those awarded a

grant will not directly receive any funds.• The applicant will have to work with a Service Officer from a Federal, State or Veterans Service Organization or with their local

military command if still in the military before application can be processed.• Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw.org; by emailing the Founda-

tion at [email protected]; or by calling (512) 291-6850.

Donations may be mailed to Texas VFW Foundation, P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761.I GAVE,

WILL YOU?CLICK HERE

Emergency/Assistance Fund for the Hidden Pines fire affecting veterans in Smithville and Bastrop.

The Hidden Pines fire started Oct. 21 and burned for over a week destroying over 4,500 acres and 64 homes. Texas VFW District 28 Post 1309 in Smithville turned their post into an emergency shelter

for the displaced families of the fire. You can provide disaster relief for veterans who were affected in the Smithville and Bastrop area, along with all Texas veterans who face disaster.

Send your donation to Texas VFW Foundation. Earmarked “Disaster Relief.”

10 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 11: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 19, POST 8904, CENTER, TEXAS—Post Life Member Ben Galindo presents Post Commander Gene Hutto with a US Flag that was flown during a

KC-135 combat operation in Iraq and a certificate of authenticity.

O p e r a t i o n I r a q i F r e e d o m

OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 5, POST 9213, MCQUEENEY, TEXAS—Post members presented a check for $1,000 to Warrior

and Family Support for programs for Iraqi veterans.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 20 POST 8397, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS—Post 9186 Commander Robert Otto and Post 8397 Commander Cris Vieyra Jr. present VFW coins to the four veterans of the Operation Iraqi Freedom war. L-R Clearance Favorite, Charleen Hernandez, John Chernosky and Al Dominguez.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 20, POST 4815, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS—Post members held a ceremony that honored Operation Iraqi Freedom.

11Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 12: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

V i c t o r y O v e r J a p a n

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 9, POST 1789, BORGER, TEXAS—Post members celebrate Victory Over Japan Day.

(LEFT) TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 21, POST 6872, CROWLEY, TEXAS—Post members attended a celebration that honored soldiers and commemorated Victory Over Japan Day.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 16, POST 3903, ROSENBERG, TEXAS— Post members celebrate Victory Over Japan Day.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 4, POST 8790, HOUSTON, TEXAS. Post members participated in a Victory Over Japan Day event. The guest speaker talked about the historical events. A WWII veteran brought in a captured flag from Japan.

12 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 13: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

A VFW member since 1976, he has served in leadership capaci�es at the Post, District and State levels earning recogni�on as an All‐State and All‐American District Commander in 2013‐14.

Currently ac�ve as Commander of Post 8397 in San Antonio, Texas.

Cris served in the United States Marine Corps from 1964 to 1968, earning his VFW eligibility in Vietnam.

Cris and his wife, Sylvia, have 2 children. He is re�red and fully dedicated to the VFW.

Page 14: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

N e w s f r o m W a s h i n g t o n D . C .

“Meet Them in the District” Campaign a Huge SuccessDuring the recent congressional recess in August, VFW members and supporters were challenged to attend town hall meetings and schedule individual meetings with their members of Congress. The numbers show that you responded with enthu-siasm and pressed your officials to support the VFW’s position. More than 300 people attended nearly 70 events around the country. Addition-ally, two official hearings were held in Alaska and Michigan and local VFW leaders were center-stage testifying about the needs of local veterans. Mobilizing the grassroots to paint the local face on national issues is why the Action Corps exists and we thank you for your push to make this happen!

WWII Marine IdentifiedThe Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced the identification of remains belonging to Marine Corps Cpl. Roger K. Nielson, from Adams, Colo., who was killed in action while fighting on the Pacific island of Tarawa on Nov. 20, 1943. He was assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion,

8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. He will be buried with full military honors on a date and location yet to be announced.

VA Partners with Walgreens to Offer Flu Vaccines This week, VA announced a partnership with Walgreens drugstores to provide flu vaccinations for veterans enrolled to receive VA health care. This is a no-cost program for these veterans as Walgreens will bill VA for services. Family members and those enrolled only in Tricare are not eligible for this program. For more information on the program or to find a local Walgreens, visit: http://www.ehealth.va.gov/immunization.asp.

Senate Holds Hearing on Toxic ExposuresThe Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing entitled, “Examining the Impact of Exposure to Toxic Chemicals on Veterans and the VA’s Response.” The Committee explored ideas to improve the way VA handles various toxic exposures, including Blue Water Navy, burn pits, Camp Lejeune and effects on veterans’ descen-dants. In his remarks, Chairman Johnny Isakson (R-GA) stressed the importance of developing a standardized system that would allow VA to grant benefits for toxic exposures, stating, “It’s very important that we have a thorough examination of what it takes to get to a presumptive conclusion that a disease or a disability has been caused by a [toxic chemical] association and that it be as scientific as it can be so it’s absolutely, unequivo-cally clear.” Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) spoke in support of their bill, the “Toxic Exposure Research Act of 2015.” This VFW-endorsed legislation would direct VA to research the effects of toxic exposures on the children and grandchildren of veterans. Ensuring that all veterans who were exposed to toxic chemicals in service get the benefits they deserve is a top priority for the VFW. To read the full transcript and watch a webcast of the hearing visit: http://www.veterans.senate.gov/hearings/exposures09292015.

Two Korean MIAs IdentifiedThe Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced the identification of remains belonging to two Army soldiers who had been missing in action from the Korean War. Both will be buried with full military honors on a date and location yet to be determined. Returned are:

Pfc. Frank Worley, 21, of New Hanover County, N.C., was declared missing in North Korea on Feb. 12, 1951. It was later learned he had been captured, but died in captivity. He was assigned to Battery A, 503rd Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division.

Cpl. Robert P. Graham, of San Francisco, was declared missing in North Korea on Feb. 13, 1951. It was later learned he had been captured, but died in captivity. He was assigned to Company A, 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division.

Bill for Federal Employees Who Are Disabled Veterans Advances The House passed a bill which would grant disabled veterans hired by the federal government 104 hours of sick leave upon being hired. The leave would be for those who have a VA disability rating of 30% or higher, for the sole purpose of attending medical appointments and would expire after 12 months on the job. Veterans benefiting from this law would continue to accumulate sick leave under existing rules, but this extra time would ensure veterans have enough leave as they start their careers to make their medical appoint-ments. The Senate passed a similar version of this bill and differences will need to be worked out before the bill can become law. For updates on this bill, stay tuned to the Action Corps Weekly.

Used with permission from Action Corp Weekly

14 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 15: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

N e w s f r o m W a s h i n g t o n D . C .

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Requester Publications Only)1. Publication Title

2. Publication Number 3. Filing Date 4. Issue Frequency

5. Number of Issues Published Annually 6. Annual Subscription Price (if any)

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the

names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the

names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of

each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.)

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or

Other Securities. If none, check box.

PS Form 3526-R, July 2014 [Page 1 of 4 (See instructions page 4)] PSN: 7530-09-000-8855

None

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4®)

_

Contact Person

Telephone (Include area code)

Full NameComplete Mailing Address

Complete Mailing Address

Full Name

12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one)Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 MonthsHas Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement.)

The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes:

PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com.

Texas VFW News 0 0 8 1 7 7 09-21-2015QUARTERLY

4$20.00

DAN WEST

DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VFW8503 NORTH IH-35 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78753-5722

(512) 834-8535DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VFWP.O. BOX 14468 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78761-4468

ROY J. GRONAP.O. BOX 14468 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78761-4468

ROY J. GRONAP.O. BOX 14468 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78761-4468

DAN WEST P.O. BOX 14468 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78761-4468

DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS P.O. BOX 14468 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78761-4468

X

X

PS Form 3526-R, July 2014 (Page 2 of 4)

Extent and Nature of Circulation Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

15.

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

13. Publication Title

a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run)

In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541. (Include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing, and Internet requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions, employer requests, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies.)

d. Non- requested Distribution (By mail and outside the mail)

b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution (By mail and outside the mail)

c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4))

Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541. (Include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing, and Internet requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions, employer requests, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies.)

(1)

(2)

(4) Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS (e.g., First-Class Mail®)

Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS®

(3)

Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail (Include pickup stands, trade shows, showrooms, and other sources) (4)

(1)Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 (include sample copies, requests over 3 years old, requests induced by a premium, bulk sales and requests including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists, and other sources)

(2)In-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 (include sample copies, requests over 3 years old, requests induced by a premium, bulk sales and requests including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists, and other sources)

(3)Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail (e.g., First-Class Mail, nonrequestor copies mailed in excess of 10% limit mailed at Standard Mail® or Package Services rates)

Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e)f.

Total Nonrequested Distribution [Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4)]e.

Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4, (page #3))g.

Total (Sum of 15f and g)h.

Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f times 100)

i.

* If you are claiming electronic copies, go to line 16 on page 3. If you are not claiming electronic copies, skip to line 17 on page 3.

TEXAS VFW NEWSAUGUST 2015

19,875 72,000

71,23619,456

0

0

0

0

0

0

71,23619,456

0

0

0

0

479205

204 275

754

71,990

10

72,000

98.9597.94

409

19,865

10

19,875

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Requester Publications Only)16. Electronic Copy Circulation

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Previous 12 Months

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Datea. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies

b. Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)

c. Total Requested Copy Distribution (Line 15f) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)d. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c Í 100)

I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are legitimate requests or paid copies.

18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner Date

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form

or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions

(including civil penalties).

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the issue of this publication.

PS Form 3526-R, July 2014 (Page 3 of 4)PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com.

0 0

19,456 71,236

19,865 71,990

97.94 98.95x

Fall 2015

9/21/2015

Insuring Texas Homes,

Farms, and RanchesSince 1901

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors”

RVOS.com1-800-507-2174

Supporting Our Veterans

Senate Holds Legislative Hearing The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing to discuss pending health and benefits legislation. The VFW submitted testimony for the record supporting several of the bills, including measures that would expand the number of judges on the Court of Appeals for Veterans’ Claims, amend the definition of a homeless veteran, and increase the pension amount for Medal of Honor recipients. The VFW also offered suggestions to improve bills that would provide training to non-VA doctors and improve access for rural veterans. National Legisla-tive Committee Member and California native, David Norris, testified in support of a bill that would allow the West Los Angeles VA medical center to lease portions of their unused property for the purposes of supportive housing, vocational training, and other services that principally benefit veterans and their families. The committee was very apprecia-tive to hear his views on this new policy which would impact Los Angeles area veterans. To watch his testimony and read the full VFW statement, visit: http://www.veterans.senate.gov/hearings/pending-health-and-benefits-legislation-100615.

15Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 16: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

P a t r i o t D a y Texas VFW District 25, Post 7207, Alpine, Texas. Post members visit a Patriot Day memorial.

Texas VFW District 4, Post 5619, Houston, Texas—Members attended the 9/11 Heros Run at Ellington Field and distributed Buddy Poppies beside the Fallen Heros Wall sponsered by the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Group. Honor guards from all military branches, Army, Navy, Marine Corp, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the Houston Police, harris County Sheriff, and Department of Public Safety were displayed in dress uniforms.

Texas VFW District 19, Post 6899, Trinity, Texas—Post members led by Commander Chambers delivered snacks and thank you letters to city and county police officers and the city fire departments as part of Patriot Day.

Texas VFW District 19, Post 10351, Hemphill, Texas—Members performed honor guard for the Hemphill Chamber of Commerce Patriot Day program with a 21 gun salute and Taps.

Texas VFW District 21, Post 10429, Benbrook, Texas—Post members held a Patriot Day remembrance ceremony.

16 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 17: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

17Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 18: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

18

Page 19: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

SHOW YOUR PRIDE!Order Your Texas VFW Gear Today!Navy Polo Shirt with Pocket

Texas VFW and your choice of emblem on right chest; 53% cotton, 47% microfiber, dri-balance performance material. Imported.

VFW Logo Men’s Pocket Shirt#1342-ADQP

VFW Logo Ladies No Pocket Shirt#234-ADQ

S-XL—$46.002XL—$51.503XL—$53.004XL—$56.00

For more Texas VFW custom products visit www.vfwstore.org and ask for OPT TX.

*Prices may be different than they appear.

19Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 20: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

P O W / M I A

Texas VFW District 4, Houston, Texas—Texas VFW State Sr. Vice Commander Peyton Lumpkin (third from the left) was the guest speaker at the City of Houston POW/MIA Ceremony held at City Hall in downtown Houston.

P O W M I A

Texas VFW District 6, Post 8621, Alice, Texas— Post and Auxiliary

members held wreath laying ceremo-nies and prayers at County Court-house and Post home monuments.

Commander Juan Navejar and Auxiliary President Irma Rodriguez, lay a wreath on Courthouse WWII

Monument and offer a Prayer.

20 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 21: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

P O W / M I A

Texas VFW District 25 Post 7207, Alpine, Texas—Members hold an observance to remember and commemorate POW/MIA Day.

Texas VFW District 20, Post 8397, San Antonio, Texas— Brackenridge High School Army Junior ROTC flag team and Color Guard at the POW/MIA Ceremony held at Veteran’s Memorial Plaza in San Antonio, Texas. Also present at this event Band of Brothers POW/MIA unit, the Post 76 Honor Guard and other VFW Posts.

Texas VFW District 19, Post 9313, San Augustine, Texas—A wreath was posted at the Veterans Memorial Monument on the courthouse lawn in remembrance of all the POWs and MIAs. Comrade Farr placed the wreath, Comrade Jarvis give a speech about POW/MIA Day, and Comrade Holt played TAPS.

Texas VFW District 13, Post 688, Boerne, Texas—On Friday September 18th, 2015 VFW Post 688 conducted a POW/MIA ceremony where a POW/MIA table was set

up. A full ceremony was conducted which included a speech by the commander and ceremonial placement of items at the altar. VFW members, family members, and the public were present.

21Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 22: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

P O W / M I A

Texas VFW District 19, Post 8904, Center, Texas—POW/MIA Flag that flies 24/7 at the Historic Court House in Center, Texas is replaced by Post Commander Gene Hutto (red shirt) and Post Chaplain Jason Samford. Past Post Commander Mike Langford assists (hidden by US Flag). Past Post Commander John Piersol stands ready to sound Taps.

Texas VFW District 3, Post 8913, Lancaster, Texas—Commander Grant Seabolt

conducting the POW/MIA recognition ceremony and explaining the various elements of the POW/MIA recognition table setup.

Texas VFW District 18, Post 3895, La Joya, Texas—Post members united to pay tribute to our POW/MIA. Members enjoyed listening to war stories and eating burgers prepared by the Post Chaplain Scott Sundberg Left to Right: Sr. Vice Commander Armando Garza, Rosenea Garza, and Sara Garza, Commander Horacio Lozano, Hector Sosa, Sylvia, and Jr. Vice Commander Eloy Hernandez.

P O W M I A

22 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 23: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News
Page 24: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

V F W B i r t h d a y / S t a r t o f E n d u r i n g F r e e d o m

V FW 1 1 6 t h B I R T H D A Y

S t a r t o f E N D U R I N G F R E E D OM

Texas VFW District 9, Post 1475, Amarillo, Texas— Members cook hamburgers for the Panhandle Honor Flight going to

Washington D.C. to promote awareness for the VFW Birthday.

Texas VFW District 4, Post 912, Baytown, Texas—Members celebrated the VFW Birthday with a big cookie cake with “Happy Birthday VFW” written on it. The post had a light diner followed by the Quartermaster speaking about the VFW history.

Texas VFW District 18, Post 8788, McAllen, Texas—Members spoke to veterans and guests about Operation Enduring Freedom that started in Afghanistan in 2001.

Texas VFW District 30, Post 7103, Athens, Texas—Officers gather with District 30 Commander to recognize the contribution of their Iraq and Afghanistan members. Pictured are Post Commander Bill Malone, Post Senior Vice Commander Steve Hutchins, Quartermaster Olan Timmons, Post Adjutant Billy Buford. Also pictured is District 30 Commander Randal Johnston who was on a visit to the Post.

24 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 25: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

I attest by forwarding this application that I am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that my Campaign Service was honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United States of America. I further give authority to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to membership in the VFW and that if no proof can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund.

Signature:___________________________________________________________________Date: _____________________________________________Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.

p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express Credit Card Number: ________________________________________________________

Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________

Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 | For questions call: (512) 834-8535

Automatic Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: You authorize the VFW to initiate electronic debit entries or affect a charge by any other commercially accepted practice to your account set forth above for the payment of dues reflected on this application. You understand such charges may be made within 2-3 business days of payment due date. For installment payments, charges will be made on or around the 1st or 15th day of the month. This authorization will remain in full force until VFW has received notification from you of its termination or upon completion of the installment payments. Annual dues are subject to change. By completing this authorization, you acknowledge that you will only receive notice when the payment would differ by more than $10.00 from the most recent payment. Call VFW Customer Service at 1-800-963-3180 or write to VFW at: VFW, P.O. Box 119028, Kansas City, MO 64171 to inquire about or cancel a payment, or to report problems such as bank closures, lost or stolen account numbers, closed accounts, or unauthorized transactions. Cancellation requests must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Central Time ten business days prior to the scheduled payment date. If you are unaware of the charge date for your account, please contact VFW. If a pay-ment is returned by your financial institution (e.g., due to insufficient funds, incorrect account information, closed account, etc.) the VFW will contact you at the address we have on file for you, explaining why the payment could not be processed, and providing alternative payment options. The privilege of making payments under this agreement may be revoked by VFW if any item is not paid upon presentation. You may have additional rights and responsibilities under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. Life Membership Installment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Membership Installment Plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making an initial payment of $45.00 and (11) monthly payments. The member will be issued an Annual membership card at the time of enrollment. The member may elect to receive a monthly statement by mail or may set up a payment profile to make the monthly payment automatically using a credit/debit card or bank account. A payoff amount will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon the completion of payments. The Life Membership fee is determined from the schedule using the applicant’s age on December 31 of the year in which the application is submitted. Delinquencies will be handled as follows: Up to 30 days – continue to bill; 31 to 120 days – delinquency can be corrected through make up payment(s) or plan end date pushed forward; More than 120 days – member is dropped from the Installment Plan, all monthly payments made to date, are applied to future years annual dues.

Lobbying for Veterans & MilitaryProviding Disaster Relief

Community VolunteerismFunding College Scholarships

Phone Cards for TroopsSupporting Youth Groups

Emergency Financial AssistanceSupporting Memorials

Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements

Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in,

or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.

Name: _________________________________________________Email: ________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.)

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone: ___________________________

Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY)

Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines

Current Status: p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/ReserveI served in: p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945-90 (Berlin)

Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay p *SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*

*Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service).

I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($45) p Life Member* p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($45 Initial payment)

L I F E M E M B E R S H I P F E E S C H E D U L EAGE as of DECEMBER 31st ONE-TIME PAYMENT Initial Payment 11 payments ofThrough Age 30 $425.00 $45.00 $38.6431 – 40 $410.00 $45.00 $37.2741 – 50 $375.00 $45.00 $34.0951 – 60 $335.00 $45.00 $30.4561 – 70 $290.00 $45.00 $26.3671 – 80 $225.00 $45.00 $20.4581 AND OVER $170.00 $45.00 $15.45

25Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 26: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

W o m e n i n S e r v i c e

T he University of North Texas System serves the North Texas area, boosting economic activity in the region by nearly

$5.2 billion annually. More than 47,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

The State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program is available to businesses owned by Service

Disabled Veterans with a disability rating of 20% or greater. The University of North Texas System is committed to

supporting the HUB Program by increasing opportunities for Service Disabled Veteran-owned businesses.

The UNT System welcomes opportunities to do business with interested vendors and encourages prospective suppliers to

register and maintain information with the State of Texas Certified Master Bidders Listing (CMBL). Formal bid opportunities

with the UNT System are posted online at http://bsc.untsystem.edu/bid-listing and at http://esbd.cpa.state.tx.us/.

Visit http://comptroller.texas.gov/procurement/registration/ to register for free State of Texas HUB Certification

or call the HUB Area’s Veteran Outreach Specialists at 940.369.5500/Toll-Free 855.868.4357

or email [email protected]. You can also visit us online at www.hub.untsystem.edu.

www.Texas4HUBs.org

Available to Service Disabled Veterans

Grow your Business by Becoming HUB Certified

HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZEDBUSINESS PROGRAM

Texas VFW District 18, Post 7473, Elsa, Texas—Post commander recognizes a female VFW veteran in honor of

Recognition of Women in Military Service Day.

Texas VFW District 19, Post 8904, Center, Texas—Member, US Army Veteran Addie Boyd, places the Memorial Wreath in honor of all women who have served in honor of Recognition of Women in Military Service Day.

Texas VFW District 19, Post 3406, Rusk, Texas— Members celebrate Women In Service Day.

Texas VFW District 6, Post 8621, Alice, Texas—Post Commander was a guest speaker at the

Rotary Club. He gave a VFW presentation on women in the military for Recognition of Women in Military Service Day.

26 Texas VFW Fall 2015

Page 27: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

T he University of North Texas System serves the North Texas area, boosting economic activity in the region by nearly

$5.2 billion annually. More than 47,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

The State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program is available to businesses owned by Service

Disabled Veterans with a disability rating of 20% or greater. The University of North Texas System is committed to

supporting the HUB Program by increasing opportunities for Service Disabled Veteran-owned businesses.

The UNT System welcomes opportunities to do business with interested vendors and encourages prospective suppliers to

register and maintain information with the State of Texas Certified Master Bidders Listing (CMBL). Formal bid opportunities

with the UNT System are posted online at http://bsc.untsystem.edu/bid-listing and at http://esbd.cpa.state.tx.us/.

Visit http://comptroller.texas.gov/procurement/registration/ to register for free State of Texas HUB Certification

or call the HUB Area’s Veteran Outreach Specialists at 940.369.5500/Toll-Free 855.868.4357

or email [email protected]. You can also visit us online at www.hub.untsystem.edu.

www.Texas4HUBs.org

Available to Service Disabled Veterans

Grow your Business by Becoming HUB Certified

HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZEDBUSINESS PROGRAM

Page 28: 2015 Texas VFW Fall News

Texas VFW District 19, Post 3406, Rusk, Texas—Members hold a

moment of silence and lower the f l ag half-staff

in observance of Patriot Day.